A recent Korean study revealed that paper straws have a much greater carcinogenic (cancer-causing) impact during their life cycle, through the course of manufacturing, use and disposal. Long championed as the eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws, paper straws may actually pose serious environmental risks. The study found that paper straws have a modelled carcinogenic impact 6.33 times higher than conventional plastic straws.
The study was commissioned by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and disclosed on October 21 by People Power Party lawmaker Kim Wi-sang.
Commissioned by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, the study published last week by Representative Kim Wi-sang of the People Power Party compared four types of straws: conventional plastic, paper, biodegradable plastic and bio-based polyethylene (bio-PE). Kim called out the South Korean government for its ‘greenwashing’ policy,’ highlighting that using ineffective alternatives was not the right way to protect the environment. Straws of every material are difficult to recycle, the study found. Their small size makes them hard to sort, and coatings and adhesives add to the problem. They recommended that stores not hand out any disposable straw by default and provide one only on request.
Bio-PE scored worst at 16.18 times the plastic figure, followed by paper and biodegradable plastic at 3.34 times.
Researchers said a blanket ban on plastic straws alone is not appropriate.
